Common Name: Chamomile 

Botanical Name: Matricaria chamomilla 

Place of origin: Chamomile is originally native to Europe, Africa, and Asia.  Today, it is still grown across these continents and in North America.  

Ideal growing conditions: To grow chamomile from either seed or transplants

  1. Start in early spring. If you are starting with seeds, you may find it trickier because you will have to plant them indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the expected final frost date.
  2. Once spring comes, plant your seedlings or transplants in full sun and healthy soil. Space the plants 8-10 inches apart and make sure to water them frequently.   

Parts of the Plant to use: To make chamomile tea

  1. You will want to harvest the blossoms by snipping off the flower with a pair of garden or kitchen scissors
  2.  Ideally, you will want to harvest the blossoms when they are in full bloom.
  3. Optional: Dry Chamomile Blossoms
  4. Steep Blossoms in boiling water to make chamomile tea.
  5. Let the tea steep for 3-5 mins, and then at this point, you can either remove the dried flowers or leave them in. Stir in a spoonful of honey if you wish and enjoy! 

Benefits/Properties: Chamomile can be used :

  • to reduce menstrual pain
  • slow or prevent osteoporosis
  • help with sleep and relaxation
  • and reduce inflammation.

The most common properties are its antioxidants, and ability to help you fall asleep.